#FutureReady Info Sharing Session & Career Guidance Event

From 16 to 18 July 2025, The #BeFree Movement, in collaboration with the Namibia Qualifications Authority & the Khomas Regional Council’s Directorate of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts & Culture, hosted The #FutureReady Info Sharing Session & Career Guidance Event at the Sam Nujoma Stadium. The event opened its doors to learners and the public, bringing together over 70 exhibitors and a diverse range of speakers to inspire and inform young people about their future career paths.

The event kicked off with a powerful opening ceremony. Mr Paulus Nghikembua, Director of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts & Culture, said:

“Over the next 3 days, we aim to captivate the minds and inspire the dreams of learners, guiding them to make informed career decisions.”

Hon. Shaalukeni John Moonde, Chairperson of the Khomas Regional Council, emphasised that the event responds to the Ministry of Education's concern about the lack of adequate career guidance in schools and its effect on youth unemployment.

Key institutions like the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) highlighted the importance of choosing accredited programmes. Mrs Harmoni Beukes, Acting CEO of NQA, explained how accreditation protects students’ futures by ensuring their qualifications are recognised locally and globally.

Mrs Edda Bohn, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Education, reminded learners:

"Every young Namibian deserves a compass to navigate their future. Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions in your life."

From 13:00 to 15:00 daily, members of the public engaged with exhibitors, asked questions, and accessed real-time information on scholarships, internships, and careers.

Special sessions were tailored for Grade 10, 11, and AS-Level learners.

Topics ranged from:

• TVET vs university pathways

• Careers in oil & gas, arts, culture, and local manufacturing

• Volunteering and community engagement

• Internships, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship

• The insurance industry (Old Mutual)

• Manufacturing in Namibia (Dinapama)

• Communications careers (MultiChoice Namibia)

• Study-abroad opportunities (AfriYoung Hoteliers Academy)

• Emerging fields like AI and Green Hydrogen

• Learners’ rights and responsibilities (NANSO)

• CV tips and career entry points (Gondwana Lodges)

Highlights included:

• SASSCAL offering 151 scholarships to TVET students and out-of-school youth.

• NamRA breaking down where taxes go and how diverse careers support national development.

• Petrofund Namibia presenting full scholarships, including tuition, laptops, and medical aid.

• Speakers like Papa Shikongeni and Alex Uapingane sharing personal journeys in arts and community development.

• Real-life stories, like that of Abel Mubita, who worked as a security guard at NUST and became the first graduate in his family.

In closing, Mrs Pauline Thomas-Kahupi, Executive Director of the One Economy Foundation, said:

“This event is a shining example of what we can achieve when we unite with purpose to empower the next generation.”

The #FutureReady event successfully created a space where youth could explore possibilities, gain clarity, and begin shaping their own futures.